London Weekend Break
Tours of London
There are a large number of companies offering everything from 2 hour "open topped" bus tours of London, to historic tours guiding you around the history and sights of this magnificent city. There are also an equally large number of tour operators providing these services. How you choose to use your time is very important when you only have a weekend in London, so think carefully about what you want to see and the best way to see it.
If you think that a sightseeing tour might be a good option, formulate some ideas of what you want to see and then hunt around. You can easily do this in advance of your trip in order to make the most of your time in London.
If you opt for a “hop on and hop off” bus tour around the city, this can always be arranged once you arrive, but if you want something more adventurous, advanced planning is usually a good idea.
Many of London's main tourist attractions, especially those of historic importance, provide some kind of on site guided tour facility, but you may be able to save time and get discounts by arranging this in advance.
To find out more about London bus tours, river boat tours, walking tours and specialty tours, use the on-site links further down this page. They should give you a feel for what each tour type can offer. (Continued below)
What kinds of sightseeing tours are available in London
Bus tours The most popular way to get an “all in” guided tour of London is by using one of the many specialist bus tour companies who offer this service. This Bus tours link will take you to a full page of information about London bus tours operators and should enable you to decide if this kind of tour is for you.
Thames river boat tours A slightly different alternative is to take a river cruise down the Thames. There are a number of options available and several charter companies offer these trips. check here London river boat for further details of what is on offer and how much the cruises cost.
There is also a combined bus and river tour that utilizes the same vehicle. These tours are alternatively known as “duck” or “frog” tours and use converted amphibious vehicles to take you around the city and down the Thames.
Walking tours Walking tours give you the best “close up” look at London and a number of operators provide a selection of tours with different themes and route. To find out more go to this London walking tours page.
Bicycling tours These bicycling tours of London give you a more personal look at London than a regular "open-top" bus trip and offer access to areas that the bus cannot reach. They start from only £10 per person. To find out more go to our London cycling tours page.
London coach breaks are a great way of getting to London from all over the UK in a relaxing trouble free way, knowing that your accommodation and dinning will be organised for you in advance. Sightseeing is often included in these packages. For more information go to Coach breaks
Helicopter tours For something a little bit more adventurous, there are some tour companies who now offer flights over the city of London offering aerial views of the city’s many sights and scenes. These trips usually extend beyond the traditional boundaries of London and offer a different perspective on the city.
London Underground (tube) If you plan your itinerary in advance, then using the underground (especially off peak) is a great way to put together your own sightseeing tour of the city. This enables you to see only what you want and at a pace that suits you.
London Tourist pass Obtaining a London Tourist pass may also be a simple way to gain access to (and avoid queues at) a number of popular attractions where you can explore or take advantage of ongoing tours. You will see adverts for these special tourist passes.